The Forbidden Princess [Paused]

Chapter 13: Runaway Bride

I finished my breakfast and dismissed myself to my room to pack. I packed everything I could fit in one bag. It would have to be enough because anything else in the bag would be too heavy for me to carry.

I threw various dresses, shoes, socks, and other articles of clothing in the bag, followed by some books, the paper I stole from my room in the palace, and some food that somehow made its way into my room. I tossed it on my shoulder and exited the room, looking back at it one last time. I slowly closed the door and made my way into the living room to find Arthur talking with the guards. Nina was relaxing at the table eating the rest of her meal and listening in to their conversation.

One of the guards turned to look at me. "Are you ready to go, Your Highness?"

"Yes. But may I go to a friend's house really quick to say goodbye? I wouldn't want them to think I vanished without reason."

The guard motioned me to the door and opened it, bowing. "Of course, Princess Charlotte! Would you like me or Prince Arthur to escort you?"

I shook my head and said: "No, I want to do this alone." I walked through the door frame and turned to face everyone. "I will be back shortly," I said with a smile. I shut the door, hoping that was believable...

I walked down the road, my bag on my shoulder getting heavier with each step I took. I would have to deal with it though; there was no turning back now. I took a deep breath and made my way to Jesse's house.

I walked up to his door and reached up to knock, but the door flew open before I had the chance. In front of me stood what looked like a smaller version of Jesse.

He must be Jesse's brother, I thought.

I bent down to look the kid straight in the face. He had Jesse's dark hair and bright green eyes that stood out. His hair was messed up like Jesse's usually was, and he looked like he had just came from playing in the dirt, which he probably did.

"Hi," the little boy said, talking so quiet that I barely heard him.

"Hello. Do you know where Jesse is?" I said in the voice I used to address little kids.

He pointed behind him. "In his room. Well, our room."

"May I see him?"

The kid didn't say anything but turned and went inside. I thought that meant for me to follow so I did. It didn't take very long to find Jesse since the house wasn't very big.

"He's right there." The kid pointed to Jesse and then ran away to probably go play in the dirt some more.

"Charlotte? What are you doing here?" Jesse said getting up to greet me.

"I-I am suppose to be going with Arthur to the palace."

"What for?" There was not only curiously in his eyes, but concern was present too.

I lost it. I completely lost it. I broke down and started to cry. I didn't exactly know why, but my plan must have hit me harder than what I previously thought.

Jesse grabbed me and brought me closer to him, holding me tight. "It's alright," he assured me. "Let's go somewhere quiet then we can talk."

We walked out of the house and made our way to the barn-the most peaceful and empty place there was at this time.

"I'm suppose to be here cleaning," Jesse said as we entered the barn. "But I'm not. Arthur isn't here to work while I lay down in the loft so what's the point in even trying to do his work?" He said it jokingly, but I could tell he was upset...possibly about his best friend leaving him? Arthur must have told him, but when?